Launching a New Preteen Ministry

Our church has had a strong ministry for 5th & 6th Graders for a long time. They started investing in this age group over 15 years ago, and they saw God do some amazing things over those years. Their investment in preteens was one of the major factors that God used to call me to Fellowship Bible Church.

When I came a year and a half ago, the church was looking to make an investment in preteen ministry for the next 15 years. We spent countless hours praying and discussing, and the vision was Fifty6. Fifty6 launched this past Sunday, and it was amazing.

Preteens “mingling” during People Bingo

Leaders are already sharing how God is moving in their group. We call them God Stories. My favorite God Story from this past Sunday came from a small group mentor and a 6th grade boy.

The mentor got a phone call on Sunday morning from a boy who has been in his group for a few years. The boys’ parents had decided that they were going to be heading out-of-town and would have to miss church. The 6th grade boy wanted to be at Fifty6, so he called his mentor and asked for a ride! Of course, the mentor went and picked him up! I’m thankful for how God is using Fifty6 to draw preteens to Him.

Teaching Time in Fifty6

I can’t wait to share some of the things that we’ve learned in starting this new ministry. Is it next Sunday yet?

Has your preteen ministry launched for the new year? If so, how did it go?